Enjoying the Small Things…and a giveaway!

Evening Writing Sessions.I have my beloved $10 Craigslist desk out in the open where I can work during the day and still be with the girls. Where a bookshelf stacked with puzzles and paper dolls replaces cubicle walls and I can, at any given moment, slide off my red chair to lie on the floor for a game of Memory. I love that space. But, I am finding that sometimes I need to be alone. I need a cubicle maybe just once a week. So, Brett rigged up this jankety card table with some crappy polyester table cloth in our bedroom. And though I sit on a rusted folding chair and am surrounded by a pile of bills and sippy cups that have managed to accumulate on the home’s newest catch-all, it’s perfect for me. It’s quiet. And right about 6:00, the sun gives a recital every night…just dances there in that vast space of glass door stretched before me and curtsies behind that mess of trees.

Bravo.

Halloween Candy.I’m going to quit eating it pretty soon, I am.

We hid it in Austyn’s room, in the third drawer down in his dresser, to keep Lainey from seing it. But, then I find myself sneaking into his room in the dark while he’s sleeping and pulling out the drawer to stuff a stash of mini Twizzlers and jolly ranchers into my nightgown. Our neighbor came over last night and, ten minutes into conversation, he goes, “You okay? You seem really hyper.”

It’s called trial-sized Almond Joys, Dude.

Playing Pretend.Three-and-a-half is magic with Imagination peaking at this blessed Peter-Pan-ish place where everything is just so…childhood. Little voices and tiny plays performed with bath toys and trinkets and lots of asking for “let’s play pretend.” We run for cover in the afternoon, under blankets and pillows, hiding from pretend storms that shake the house and we tightrope across cracks in the sidewalk lest we fall in the shark-infested waters of the deep cement.

I used to want to be a child forever. Now, in loving this place, I want to have a child forever. And, believe me, it is in moments like this that I find comfort in the fact that the magic of the extra chromosome just might let Peter stay in Neverland a little longer for our family. And that’s perfectly alright.

Gingham Things.Happy little checks, they are.

Fallish Things.Like wheat-colored stars in the back yard.

Or pretty little embellishments that take all the color of crisp, fallen leaves and up the ante on a plain tank.

Free Things.So, I’ve already expressed my love for the lillebaby EveryWear Organic carrier which I use with Nella all the time and without, could not have trekked across four states and three layovers with two kids last month. So, when Scandinavian Child offered to send me a diaper bag by the same brand, I was thrilled. I’m constantly swapping bags between the few cheap pocket-less ones I’ve managed to collect, but they all end up lying somewhere with a wad of gum, a few tubes of capless lipstick and a mess of crumpled receipts.

No longer, my friends.

Totally loving my lillebaby Oslo bag which is chocked full of cool pockets and zippers making life so much easier. It attaches perfectly to my stroller with these great snap straps. And, hello…it comes in red.

You too can rock out an organized diaper bag! One random commenter on this post will win a lillebaby Oslo diaper bag courtesy of Scandinavian Child.

HECK YES!! I need some organization in the form of a diaper bag. My Grandma brought candy over today for our kids…um they are 3 months and 22 months. So my husband has graciously volunteered to eat it all.

I have to agree, the header is fantastic. Your little mouse and cat look adorable. They win the best costumes for halloween, I say.

Oh, if only i could be barefoot in october. It is getting cold cold cold over here, but with that just brings lots of other things to do like hot coco, snowmen and days under blankets watching chistmas movies.

Lainey seems like a girl who could come up with the best imaginary world possible. I’ve always been like that too, and now more than ever do I wish I could escape to that pretend place of wonder now. I think no matter how old you are, you can always express your imagination somehow, and should do it freely! Playing pretend with a child just makes you look a lot more saner than doing it alone!

I am loving the header with the girls in their costumes!So adorable. I just posted pics of my little Dorothy and Alice in Wonderland on my blog:)Just one more reason that I love fall!Also,I am in love with your wedges…so hot!Happy Mothering!

We have the same thing going on at our home too but involving a 2 year old and his love for everything blues clues and how that will fly around in the wonder pets fly boat that we have… And I have the same problem about all my diaper bags.. Pick me… i could use a new one and one that will last and be what we need…

We have the same thing going on at our home too but involving a 2 year old and his love for everything blues clues and how that will fly around in the wonder pets fly boat that we have… And I have the same problem about all my diaper bags.. Pick me… i could use a new one and one that will last and be what we need…

My best friend just had her sweet baby boy 4 weeks early (perfectly healthy, thank godness!) – but, in true procrastinator style, she had all the “big stuff” done, but none of the “stuff” stuff. I would love, love to fill this with sweet little baby necessities for her! (like how she’s TALL – and never anticipated him being so tiny, didn’t buy any newborn-sized anything!)

My little 3 1/2 yr old is living in the land of make believe also. Not a day goes by that I don’t stop and breathe in those moments and wish I could forget everything else in the world and focus only on being a princess in the backyard.Love your pictures, your words, and your inspiration.

Can’t get over the halloween costumes. Love Nella chewing on Lainey’s tail. And thanks for reminding me that because one of my lovies needs in a more special kind of way we get to keep her little for a while longer. Talk about a blessing in disguise.

hope this doesnt sounds stalkerish, dont worry i live is aus LOLbut i love your life…i look at your picutres and i hope one day i have a beautiful family like you with a gorgeous home, and fun holidays.

This mama, who stopped working to stay at home with the new daughter, could really use a diaper bag. We moved out desk into our bedroom so I can get school work done… but I drop things to get down on the floor to play too. Papers can wait

I’m loving the way your girls look at each other as well as your pictures!! The photos are particularly breathtaking tonight!!

So I have an idea about getting 13 year olds to read your comments. I teach 8th grade and use the student bathroom (ah, the humbling parts of being a public school educator:), and the girls write some not-very-nice things about each other, and I thought, What if Kelle Hampton and Dove made posters of the comments of what all the gals would say to their 13 year old self!!??

That post really touched me, and I wrote about beauty/confidence/anxiety and raising daughters tonight in my blog, and gave you the props for getting my mind on it. I’d be so honored if you read it; it would be sort of like when Ellen bugged the shit out of oprah until she got on her magazine cover if you read it and added your 2 cents:) you are Oprah caliber, of course;)

Love the new header! Mmmm Halloween candy… I also made pumpkin chocolate chip cookies yesterday with my girls, and they have been screaming my name as loudly as they shout, “it’s fall! enjoy the pumpkin goodness!” 😉

Enjoying your little things in this post–the last pic of Lainey, the cool wheat colored star things (what are those?), and Nella enjoying a good story from the big sis.

And enjoying mine–foam letters and numbers that my little man loves (even if it’s just to chew on for now), him shaking his head “no” when you ask if he wants something to drink…and he doesn’t, and the conversations that we have even though I have no clue what he is saying (he’s one).

I love your girls. I’ve been following your blog since Nella was born…My baby had health problems shortly after he was born in Jan. We’d love to win the Diaper bag! Always needing one…esp. with 7 little people around to need momma to carry stuff.my blog is: joybell74.blogspot.com

I’m finally commenting, and not only stalking your glorious blog. Thank you for sharing your stories, family, lovely pictures and music. I loved the Carnitas recipe. I will be making it again. Winner. Thanks!

Love the Halloween costumes. Your girls are just so cute! I love all the baby feet pics. I just got my first pair of slippers for my little guy 2 weeks ago from my mother in law. She didn’t quite know what to think when I burst into tears just thinking about those tiny little feet

i love this song. i love your blog. i love the smile that i get when i see kids laughing and playing. it gets me excited about being a mom… one day. not today. not soon. but one day ill be ready. and hope to be as cool as you.

i love your blog! to say im addicted is an understatement, i’ve been reading since nella’s birth. i’m an early intervention physical therapy student and watching nella rock out that tummy time and sit up all by herself always makes me smile.

I’ll admit it, I never comment on your blog, but I love that bag and want to win it to give to a very special friend. I’m crossing my fingers. Oh and I love the new header, the pictures of the girls are very cute.

I love Fall, it’s kind of a sleepy time. All I want to do is make recipes with pumkins! My little Vivian who has Ds too is also a black kitty this year. She loves wering her costume, and even keeps the ears on. Especially after I showed her what is looks like in the mirror. Life is getting sweeter everyday with my littles. I look forward to reading your blog when they are napping!

I check my reader often, always hoping there will be a new post from you, helping me to slow down and savor every moment of life. Would love the Red bag so I could be ready for my 2 month old grandsom!!

526 days. That’s how long my pay-down-college ticker has left on it until “I can afford to have a baby”, I tell my friends. And if I can be half the mother you are Ms. Kelle – well then, life would be just swell. Loving your entrance to Fall, and loving that superb diaper bag!

I’m a new reader to your blog and love love love it. You have such a way with words and they touch my soul. Plus, your Lainey Love and little Nella make my heart flutter. The diaper bag looks fab and I would def like to be entered. I have been alternating between a book bag with no pockets, and a plain jane messenger bag…neither of them actual diaper bags.

Oh I just love seeing your pictures and updates! Also, love your taste in music. Every morning when my daughter (8 months on the 4th) and I get home from dropping daddy off at work, I plop her in her high chair with some cheerios and I come to your blog so we can listen to your play list while welcoming Mr.Sunshine to the day, enjoying breakfast together and sipping on coffee. Every morning, Monday-Friday and sometimes on the weekends when we are making daddy a special breakfast while he sleeps in! I love your blog – You have been such an inspiration to me! Thank you.

I commented on your facebook page, but I will ask here in care you read this first. What is the name of the pig in the picture with Nella? I can’t believe how big she is getting. Have you heard a dada or mama yet from her?

Love the diaper bag, pictures are beautiful. Thanks too fordig this chick, I love her and want to be a Montana cowgirlnext time around. Funny how readinga blog can be so soothing and get you to think about things.I enjoy my time checking in onmy internet friends. xoxo

You know it’s funny, I’ve been reading your blog for a bit, and I sort of feel like I know you. I usually read it through my blog reader, so I never heard the music I guess. But when I heard it today I was like oh yeah that sounds like her! haha! I love it.Julia

Halloween is starting to take off in Australia (which I have mixed feelings about) but I had no idea chocolate was an acceptable treat! I have a bag of gummy eyeballs stashed in case we get trick or treaters but next year I will know better and get in mini chocolates.

your blog is one of the small things i enjoy every night when our house has quieted down i sneak into the office to catch a glimmer of your little life and a little inspiration to be a better me………i know things arent always perfect and “we” dont see all the other “stuff” but the parts were do see are magical……….so what is in your bag of joy???? a few extra laffy taffys from the tricker treat stash?? thanks for the love you share!!

I was changing my little magic chromosomed baby tonight and noticed how easily her legs reached up to her belly. She just folds right up like a rubber band. The picture of Nella sitting up with her feet turned inward, completely flat to the floor made me laugh. That’s flexibilty, baby. Cute and funny trait to have.

So, I’m only fifteen years old and I stumbled upon your blog somehow. I check every so often and catch up on all your posts and I’ve come to a conclusion. If and when I have a family, I want it to be like yours… full of love. I think there’s a difference between living and being alive and you seem to be living. You’re inspiring and exactly the kind of mom who I hope to be someday. Sometimes I can’t wrap my head around how something can be so full of flaws yet entirely perfect which is what the world is, yet you’re one of the greatest examples of it. You’re just great, that’s all. I appreciate your blog and what it’s taught me- to love. That’s all, that’s it, that’s all we really need. To just love.For that I thank you and I’m praying this comment doesn’t come off as creepy but even more so, I pray you read this and just know that you’ve inspired someone (but I’m sure I’m not the only one).Thanks, and keep on keepin’ on!

This is my favorite favorite FAVORITE thing you have ever said on your blog. It’s just amazing to me how you capture feelings and translate them into words. Please put this in your book!

“I used to want to be a child forever. Now, in loving this place, I want to have a child forever. And, believe me, it is in moments like this that I find comfort in the fact that the magic of the extra chromosome just might let Peter stay in Neverland a little longer for our family. And that’s perfectly alright.”

I’ve eaten every single last Almond Joy that came in the Coscto mega pack of candy…and each time I snuck one I hid the evidence deep in the trash. If my 3 year old saw candy wrappers….well, I dont need to tell you! love your blog. Thank you for being a continuous inspiration.

i love your posts! it makes my dream of staying at home with kid come true. =) and i love love love seeing your girls! they are just way too cute and i love how you dress them! makes me wish you had a boy too i can see how you will dress him and i can copy it. =) happy mid week to you guys as well!!!!

I logged on yesterday and was enthrilled by your new header, it is gorgeous! I Love Gingham or as we call it in SA check clothing. My little girl is 4 and she is so into fantasy play, what bothers me is that she prefers fantasy play to playing with other children but that is exactly how I was a child. I found the part of you going into Austin’s draw at night hillarious :-). Love the pics you posted as usual, totally in awe!! Romaine(South Africa)

So love ‘enjoying the small things’…really puts things into perspective when you post these. -Thank you. You are becoming famous, and yet still have so much gratitude for what is really important…don’t ever lose that Kelle! God Bless you and your family.

I just added new diaper bag to my Christmas wish list…And today, we passed a lady carrying a diaper bag similar to ours and my daughter points to it saying, “mama”. I am being identified by my diaper bag. That is sad. It’s time for a new identity!

Love Nella’s sock feet – too cute! And love your new banner, the girls are adorable! I have a little cat this year and a tiny itty bitty 5 week old bat too! Can’t wait too see pics of the girls trick-or-treating!

Oh how I would love a diaper bag with pockets galore so that I don’t have to do the “I know it’s in here somewhere” hand scramble when I’m out…and to possibly stash a piece or two of halloween candy for the road..

“Having a lot on my plate, but dropping it all for moments like these…” I need this reminder often. And I love the sock feet! Thanks for another (RED!!!) giveaway: I’m in need of a new diaper bag, and this one is calling out to me.

Aack! Again, the new banner is PERFECT. I too, have pledged to stop scarfing down the mini twix bars “hidden” on top of the fridge. Do I get a pass on those extra calories since I’m still breastfeeding? It’s worth considering…

I deserve this bag … well, me and everyone else that leaves you lovely comments I am about to adopt my first baby Our birth mom was due yesterday and she still hasn’t popped so my husband and I continue to wait as patiently as we can to meet our daughter. So, please, I really really need/want/desire this bag!!

Kelle#1 those purple shoes are hawt!#2 that last picture on the post is my FAV lainey pic to date!#3 my best friend just delivered her little peanut in the form of a “freak delivery” at 31 weeks and I would love to surprise her with a diaper bag like this since that’s one of those things that was going to be purchased around ohhhh…..39 weeks

Kelle#1 those purple shoes are hawt!#2 that last picture on the post is my FAV lainey pic to date!#3 my best friend just delivered her little peanut in the form of a “freak delivery” at 31 weeks and I would love to surprise her with a diaper bag like this since that’s one of those things that was going to be purchased around ohhhh…..39 weeks

OH MY GOSH! Your new header is fantastic. What cute costumes!! Thanks for sharing the small things you are enjoying right now. Life has been really hard in our family lately… I need the constant reminder to enjoy the small things.

Love that baby bag! Oslo is the capital of Norway, fun to see some scandinavian products over there. let me know if you want some of this weather too. 😛 Dark, cold and freezing in October – no bare feet for sure! .. only inside the wollen socks in front of the fire place,.. which is kinda cozy.

Hi Kelle,I love the new title photos of Nella and Lainey. Can’t wait to see all the Halloween dress up pictures.Such a lovely description you give Kelle of the sun doing a recital!What a gorgeous picture of Lainey and Nella sharing a book together.x

so much to say. love your new header. love candy. love seeing nella & lainey read together- my little guy is nella’s age, and he usually picks books over toys! i also loved that i spotted olivia the pig- those are MY favorite books.

I love reading your blog. It’s the icing on my cupcake day! Thanks for being a ray of sunshine to the world Kelle. God has gifted you with so much joy and contagious love for life – thanks for sharing it with us all. You make this world a better place! PS. That diaper bag looks RAD!

Oh the photo of the girls sharing a story together is so sweet.Love the new header. And nappy bags – mine is like the Bermuda Triangle- the number of things that disappear down in there is just frightening!!

Oh the photo of the girls sharing a story together is so sweet.Love the new header. And nappy bags – mine is like the Bermuda Triangle- the number of things that disappear down in there is just frightening!!

Hi KelleI’ve been reading your blog for ages now and you always make me smile. Whenever I’m feeling a little down I read your post and your positivity is infectious. I love checking out your sponsors too and have just ordered my first belkai necklace as a gift for my pregnant sister, can’t wait for it to arrive. Thank you again for giving me such inspiration.Love Bernadette (Sunderland, England)

I will NOT say that I was eating Halloween candy myself while reading this post because it would simply not be true. And because of this I will not have to grab an extra bag at the store to replace what I haven’t been eating this past week.

Thank you for sharing your world again and again, you inspire me to be a happier person to see the enjoyment in the small things. Love love love the header, adorable. Having 2 little girls of my own, I would love the diaper bag. Best wishes.

I would like to win. Our first baby is due in 6 weeks and I’ve yet to choose a diaper bag. Too many options and it’s hard to know what the best ones are. AT this point I am planning on using a backpack.

reading very early in the am while still curled upunder the covers… I needef some inspiration to get out in to the cold and get my day started before my girls start it for me. Thanks for giving me just what I needed!! Can’t explain how tough things have been lately but I will keep trying to “enjoy the small things”

I, too, am a Mommy to a little 3 and half year old princess and an almost 2 year old princess. The candy wrappers made me giggle because at this age, I have become quite apt at sneaking little tasty morsels into my mouth without allowing two sets of eyes to see me. Sometimes I get caught and am asked, “Mommy, what is in your mouth…open your mouth so I can see.” Makes me realize who really is in charge, and I would not have it any other way. Yet, there has to be a better way then sneaking into the laundry to “fold more clothes” so I can have another Reeses cup! Goodness, do I love my little ladies!

My little one is all about the imaginary play too. I love the little voice that transforms into many other little voices as she plays with her stuffed animals and figurines. I. eat. it. up.

I thought of you last night as I was trying to get my brother to realize that he needs to enjoy the treasures of every day; and that includes his 2 little ones. I ttold him that he needs to stick his head out a window in a moving car (obviously suggesting that he’s NOT the one behind the wheel); just to feel the rush of wind on his skin. I got a good laugh for that comment, but seriously, do it!

Hope the sugar detox goes easy on you. Our candy is banished to the car for safekeeping, but now I have 3 boxes of Girl Scout cookies in the house to boot! Geez.

My battered diaper bag is like Mary Poppins purse! My kids are always digging in it to find a surprising treasure. I love the gingham diaper cover…I miss half naked babies like we always were growing up in Miami…

I love the new header! Your blog gives me such inspiration. I am a mom of a wonderful 10 month old son, and I am learning to enjoy every moment, and to not worry so much about the laundry! I also would love that bag!

I have just recently started reading your blog, as I stumbled upon it from a friends page and I must say….Im loving it, from tears to smiles or just the love of life you have, I come back and check it every night after I have my 2 little ones in bed! You really do have a way with words and a beautiful talent in your photography! Very inspiring Your little girls are absolutely beautiful!

Love the diaper bag, I can never seem to keep mine organized either! 😉

love the new banner across the top. too cute! would love to win the bag, need to keep my 3 very littles organized. and i haven’t bought my halloween candy yet- otherwise i would be eating all week like you! have a super day

1) I’ve been meaning to say for a few days that I love your new header!!! Nella biting Lainey’s tail is the cutest thing EVER!!

2)’I used to want to be a child forever. Now, in loving this place, I want to have a child forever. And, believe me, it is in moments like this that I find comfort in the fact that the magic of the extra chromosome just might let Peter stay in Neverland a little longer for our family. And that’s perfectly alright.’

Beautiful!

3) Stealing candy from your kids… I so do that!!

4) Nella’s feet are something I just adore. With sock, without. Tan feet, or not. Shoes, no shoes. Darling!I just wanna bite ’em. In a playful way.

5) Lainey’s love for Nella…. precious!

6) Under your bed… looks just like mine. So glad I’m not the only one.

7) Card tables as desks… mine is a long banquet table. Oh the sacrifices.

My Halloween candy stash is disappearing quickly too… good thing I bought the extra large bag knowing we would eat some (a lot) before Halloween and knowing that we only get about 8 trick or treaters. Shhhhhh!!! It’s hidden in the back of my cupboard that houses mixing bowls and the crockpot.

those purple shoes are KILLER!!! People say I’m crazy for being a mom and wearing killer shoes, but there’s something about a great pair while going about your day that just makes everything better. And the jelly fingers on your dress and baby squeals as you turn the corner? Gravy to that awesomely filling Thanksgiving meal. Gravy.

And, believe me, it is in moments like this that I find comfort in the fact that the magic of the extra chromosome just might let Peter stay in Neverland a little longer for our family

^this made me incredibly happy for your family. I too have an (almost) 3 and a half year old, and want to live in this neverland forever… good thing ill get to experience it again in another year and a half three and a half is magic!

Oh my gosh tell me about it .. the Halloween candy – yikes! and do you know they make a pack called MOVIE TIME??? its got all the delicious treat you generally only buy when at the movies like Junior Mints?? Hello heaven!

I also like the new header – your girls are absolutely adorable. As for the giveaway, I checked out her website and I love that diaper bag. I am also a collector of diaper bags, I love switching things up once and awhile!

Hi! My name is Jen and I read your blog every day! My name doesn’t come up in the comments though! Anyway LOVE the bag you are giving away! And I love the pictures of your beautiful girls! Love reading your stories!

the pic of lainey and nella bean laying together looking at a book just made my eyes all water up. they are so sweet together and i know it warms your heart to know they will always have a best friend and secret-sharer in each other. and id love to win that diaper bag for my daughter who is preggo with # 3. have a beautiful sunshine filled day! ~cathy~

I love coming here when I’m feeling down or grumpy… or at the beginings of a mommy funk. Anyone can tell me how good I have it. And I hear them… but for somereason you know the right way to point it out and pull me out.Thanks.And it was great to finially see some mess in your house. I know you say its messy but never really got to see it, for real. I was starting to hate you a little bit for having these pretent messes but then the backgroud of your life always looks pretty pulled together to me.

I love posts like these! Inspires me to stop and think of all the things I’m loving right now! I love the picture of Nella and Lainey reading the book- the look of admiration on Nella’s face is beautiful. And, that last picture of Lainey- adorable!!!

Loved seeing what you are enjoying this week! Makes me want to be on the lookout for the gingham, embellished, and halloween candy things in my life! Every one of your photos are just stunning… you should be proud, you talented, beautiful lady! By the way… you are model material. The picture of you with the flower pin… sooo pretty!

What an amazingly optimistic take on Peter Pan and its relation to your family! Also, where did you get the high socks for Nella? I have been searching all over for socks that my little Lilah can’t pull off as easily in chilly WI!

If this bag holds the secret to organized outings, then I must have it! (And I have to tell you, I’m relieved to see that I’m not the only mama eating all the Halloween candy before the big night even arrives…)

oh my goodness only the other day I spied my ideal nappy bag on another mommy in Starbucks, only to be told when I asked her where she got it……….. South Africa! Happens to me EVERY time! So I would love to win your pockety pockety nappy bag xxx ps i love the new header

The pic of Nella’s sock feet made me laugh out loud. Man, she’s working those knee-highs.And i hate to admit it….but I’ve never tasted an Almond Joy. That shocks me, as I’ve never met a candy I didn’t like. I will locate one today…

I also love this part of your blog:‘I used to want to be a child forever. Now, in loving this place, I want to have a child forever. And, believe me, it is in moments like this that I find comfort in the fact that the magic of the extra chromosome just might let Peter stay in Neverland a little longer for our family. And that’s perfectly alright.’

Yah, I am pretty sure we all need the Halloween candy to go away. My only saving grace is that I have had strep the last few days and can’t eat it I always struggle with diaper bags as you do, nothing ever seems to work. I also love that this one comes in red and think the fact that it attaches to a stroller is fabulous. One less thing to carry!

Although my husband and I have only been married for 4 months-ish, I am so excited for when the time comes for us to start having children. Reading your posts I can always feel the joy your children bring you! I love children so much and cannot wait to be a mommy (hopefully next year)!! Thank you for always sharing your family with all of us

I purposely did not buy any Halloween candy yet, because I have a real sweet tooth. However, school parties are today and trick or treat night is tonight so I am sure I will be on a sugar high that will last all weekend!

those babies just make my heart smile! Thanks for sharing your love of the halloween candy and that you too will have old receipts with some randomness along with them in the bottom of the bag..good times my friend..good times!

How beautiful! Every now and then, I stop to think about how much fun I had when I was younger. The games of “Princess” and “House” I would play. Sneaking into my moms makeup and clothes until she would find me, only to jump right in and play too! Childhood really is a magical thing!

You inspire me – you don’t know me, but you INSPIRE me! OH MY GOODNESS! My husband has asked what has come over me, my usual pollyanna attitude has now been combined with colors and flying by the seat of my pants and enjoying the little things that by themselves would just be moments, but because I/we are choosing – they become MEMORIES – beloved MEMORIES. Whether the random number comment fairy picks me or not – THANK YOU for your inspiration.

For a split second all I wanted to do was comment on your header and then go back and read your post…because that is the cutest ever!! Ever! But after that split second was over, I had to of course read the rest!

“Having a lot on my plate, but dropping it all for moments like these…”

I LOVE your thoughts about that magical extra chromosome allowing us to enjoy the enchantment of childhood a little longer. What a cool way to look at things. Just yesterday I took a picture of my two year old’s toy in my silverware drawer. I stopped myself from putting it away b/c I know someday his toys won’t be all over the house. I just wanted to hold on to that moment as long as possible. I hadn’t thought about the fact that my almond-eyed baby boy will bless me with his innocence for even longer than his brother will. Thanks 😉

First just let me say I love, love, love the halloween costumes!! Ok, now the pleading, pick me! Pick me!! With two littles of my own, I cant tell you how many diaperbags we’ve gone through, a red one would look nice carrying all our stuff!! So again PICK ME!!!

I love the mini almond joys, too! I swore to myself that I would not eat the candy this year before Halloween and even have to go out and buy more for the trick or treating goblins…so I bought pretzels for them instead this year…and they are all still here! HA!

A new and improved diaper bag would be so exciting. I’ve been using cloth grocery bags as make shift diaper bags to carry all the baby necessities in denial that I still actually needed a diaper bag. For some reason I convinced myself that my 3 year old son and twin 1 1/2 year old girls would carry their own back backs while I carried my 5 mo olds stuff in a small cute bag… this never happens!

I know I’ve said this before but you inspire me to grow as a person and better enjoy the small things in my own life! Thank you.

In reference to the new header, my older sister and I were a cat and mouse for two halloweens in a row. Then in there was a year break and my younger sister and I were cat and mouse for two more years.

Sometimes, as moms, we all need a little time in a cubicle. For me it’s my nightly soak in the shower. It’s pretty much the only time I am completely by myself. I have a 2-year-old son, watch four other toddlers in my home all day long, and am pregnant with twins due in just a few weeks…. so I need some quiet time more than you know. I can completely relate!

Your purple wedges are fabulous by the way. As soon as I can see my ankles again, I will be in search of fabulous shoes like those.

Whoa wait…did you say mini Almond Joy? Oh my, we can’t even get regular Almond Joy here anymore. I thought they had stopped making them or something. I have to go tell my husband that we definitely need to move to Florida now…

I just threw our diaper bag in the garbage… I found a 3 week old banana in the bottom of it… (No – I have no idea how I didn’t find it sooner than 3 weeks with that stench…) but after scrubbing… and scrubbing… And then putting it in the washer only to have the washer eat it… Well – it then fell apart. Bummer.

I LOVE your shoes in the last photo! Only you could pull those off cause I sure as heck couldn’t! lol I love your creativity! You inspire me to find crafts to do with our daughter Haleigh! I am not crafty at all but we have so much fun trying. We’re making memories together. Thank you so much!!

PHEW! I am SO relieved to know that I am not the only one that hides the candy only to go in search of it under the cover of darkness! I feel all “special ops” sneaking in and collecting the contraband and then sneaking back out, undetected, to enjoy the contraband! Your blog makes me smile…it makes me laugh, and it gives me glimpses of encouragement to share with my friend and her sweet Molly…I love the Peter Pan analogy…so very true!

Nella and Lainey are THE cutest cat-and-mouse I have ever seen in my entire life. And we’re made a point NOT to buy any Halloween candy yet because it’ll be gone and there will be none left for the kiddies… and I’ll get a tummy ache. That and/or a sugar high.

And Nella with the socks? Honestly… too much! The kid makes everything look so amazingly adorable!

OK – First I LOVE your header!!! So stinkin’ cute! And second, that diaper bag would be awesome as my first one is in shambles from my daughter! I feel like my muffin on the way maybe could use a new one! Happy Trick or Treating!

OK – First I LOVE your header!!! So stinkin’ cute! And second, that diaper bag would be awesome as my first one is in shambles from my daughter! I feel like my muffin on the way maybe could use a new one! Happy Trick or Treating!

OK – First I LOVE your header!!! So stinkin’ cute! And second, that diaper bag would be awesome as my first one is in shambles from my daughter! I feel like my muffin on the way maybe could use a new one! Happy Trick or Treating!

I have hidden the bag of Halloween candy in the freezer. Does it work? Ask the husband who smiled like the Chesire Cat and told me what a great hiding spot it would be—for the kids! And seriously in love with probably to coolest bag I have ever seen in my life! Being red is definitely a bonus as it would match fantastically with the perfect pair of shoes that just happens to be sitting in my closet. Here’s to crossing fingers and wishing. Happy Thursday

I totally need a new diaper bag. I have 3 going right now … there’s the small one to take into the restaurant, the one to take to the big sister’s soccer and then there’s the one for being out for the whole day. It’s insanity!!

amazing how that little clip MADE your outfit. so cute!!! i’m a big fan of gingham too. my girls are 7and almost 11 and they still play together with Barbies and Legos and well…anything. it is so precious to see. so no worries you have a long time yet to enjoy that magic. have a beautiful day.

The more I read your blog, the more I want to thank you for the intimate look you provide into your family – its joys, its struggles and the overabundance of love that is shared. Your family is beautiful and your perspective is real and refreshing. Thanks for the constant inspiration, whether it’s through your words or pictures.

Ok Kelle … You seriously need to hide that Nella of yours cuz I am *this close* to hopping on a plane and coming to your house and snatching her up!! Ok, not really, b/c that would be crazy…but you know what I mean!! That pic of her in her little mouse costume bitting Lainey’s tail?!?! OMG. Priceless.

Precious new header…and the sock feet pic of Nella is my favorite of this post. With the stuffed Olivia next to her, I imagine an unspoken conversation between the two. ‘I like laying on the floor.’‘Me too!’‘Check out my feet in these socks.’‘I know. I wish my feet were that long.’‘Wanna go play with my sister?’‘Maybe in a minute…I really like laying on the floor.’‘Yeah…me too.’

I have the same diaper bag problem as you. My oldest is 4 now and I’ve never had an actual “diaper bag”. Now, with my third on the way, I’ve vowed to get a real bag before he arrives. Plus, I love that color red!

I’m constantly checking your blog to see when you’ve posted something new and I always get so excited when you have. I have to put everything else on hold to read and see the pictures. Please don’t stop blogging!

This has nothing to do with your post, but I have to share: My friend in Nebraska had her 20 week ultrasound yesterday and learned there were some genetic abnormalities (heart) and their baby may have DS. My other friend in North Carolina had the same situation a few weeks ago. It was such a joy to share your Blog with them. Being a new follower, I have to say I now feel so much hope and joy for people who have a child with DS rather than sadness or fear. You have not only changed the way they feel about their children, but people like me as well. The way you look at life and your beautiful girls is such an inspiration. Kelle, thanks to you sharing your story, in all its truths, the sadness as well as the happiness. Thanks to you putting yourself out there so many people can move forward with peace. No matter what their doctor’s appointments bring, they know they will welcome their babies with love and HOPE. This is not just a Blog, your words will save lives.

I Love the new pictures of the girls!!!!! I also love the diaper bag. This would be great for us. We found out a month ago that we are having twins. See, I yold you it would come in handy. Happy Halloween!!!

I am pregnant with my first child. I’m absolutely terrified! I find comfort in your blog and knowing that it all will get done and if it doesn’t, OH WELL! We are telling our families this weekend, our the butterflies in my stomach and tears in my eyes that appear as I type this. Your girls are dolls!

I am feeling your struggle to stay away from the Halloween candy- I can’t seem to resist it either- the other night I couldn’t sleep because I had eaten candy corn pumpkins while watching glee! Jealous of your bare feet in October my uggs have made an appearance and will stay on now until the spring! Loving the pictures of your little cuties- the new blog header is fantastic… The Halloween costumes are fantastic.

Wish I’d had a cool diaper bag like that when my girlies were babes, BUT stepdaughter is pregnant so I know she would love it. I love the photo of the girls lying on the floor, with your normal, homey messes in the background. Thank you for sharing!

I feel like the Neverland in me “never” left, it was just suppressed for awhile. I’m looking forward to our baby’s arrival in February to bring it back in full force! Love the last picture of Nella- gorgeous!

Only you can make a Peter Pan reference that makes me cry. Seriously. And I sooo needed this after a really hectic morning with my two babies. I felt guilty when I breathed a sense of relief after dropping them off at school..and now I want to go scoop them back up and never let them go.

Other things I LOVE about this post: your flower clip, Lainey’s hat, Nella in nothin’ but a diaper and white socks, and the fact that I’m not the only one with stuff jammed under my bed Oh..and that diaper bag ROCKS. I’ll take one, please

Today when my sleepy almost 2 yearold was wrestling to get on my lap while I was reading your blog, he looked at what i was reading. Got a big goofy grin, & said “ella a cat”!!! Girls look sweet in the newest pics:) luv the bag!!

The header is just adorable! Can’t wait to see the cat and mouse marching down your street on Halloween! So you know how I come here and most times shed a tear or two because of your lovely touching pictures? Well today I sat in a mess of tears at my desk when I read this:

“I used to want to be a child forever. Now, in loving this place, I want to have a child forever. And, believe me, it is in moments like this that I find comfort in the fact that the magic of the extra chromosome just might let Peter stay in Neverland a little longer for our family. And that’s perfectly alright.”

Seriously, you are amazing at articulating your thoughts…and girl you sure know how to live and love….real BIG. You are such an inspiration.My son is in that “pretend” stage and I could just sit and listen to him for hours on end. Love! xoKris

I’ll take one in red. . . yes, please, and thank you! Henry is in the kitchen with me and is swaying back and forth to Ingrid Michaelson’s YOU AND I. So cute, we’ve never heard that one before. Kelle, I love the photos of you in your ‘wife beater’. You’re just so lovely. . . your girls are too. Thanks for being so wonderful.

Red is EPIC! It’s my favorite color! I also love the small things and bare feet and the fact that my girl thinks she’s Cinderella even though I swore I wouldn’t have a girl that was into princess’s and fairies! Little girls are quite awesome!

I enjoy reading your recent blog posts You have inspired me to take more photographs, of things I wouldn’t have ever thought about. I love the diaper bad, I have a grandson that I tote around and would most definatley use this bag !!! It’s very stylish !

Love everything about the blog….the new work space set up in your bedroom, your girls in all their every day glory, and showing us once again what life is all about – loving our babies!! Oh, and that new red diaper bag is fan-freaking-tastic!

Thanks for sharing your inspirations, and your love for the small things in life. we could all learn so much from you! Thanks… also really liked the green dress, tytes and pinkish shoes! very awesome….. Sara

Kelle, You will never know just how much your writing inspires me. I look EVERY single day to see if there is a new blog and pictures. Which BTW lovvvving the new header. You capture lifes greatest moments!

You are AMAZING!! You are a WONDERFUL Momma who catches all of the beautiful things in life! You have inspired me to start being more serious about photography. I just bought a new camera and lens to try to capture the true essence of life and my 5 and 7 year old.

Lainey is GORGEOUS, but that little Nella has stolen my heart!! EVERY picture of her makes me smile!! LOVE the new header! Simply adorable!!

Please keep up the good work and the beautiful life you are living!!~Kris

Most meaning line of your post to me..“I used to want to be a child forever. Now, in loving this place, I want to have a child forever”. I look at them each day and want them to stay young forever.. DO I hear a Jay-z song in the background??Love that diaper bag.. could totally use it!Your post has made me see that I too have a lot on my plate, but really need to stop everything and enjoy my little ones!

HA! I love the candy wrappers. they remind me of myself. we just bought the candy yesterday and I opened the bag as soon as we got it. Yikes! I absolutely love the new header. Your girls are gorgeous as always.Please enter me in the giveaway! I am on the hunt for a new diaper bag and that red is absolutely perfect!

Adorable header. Especially the kitty with the mouse tail in her mouth – so cute! Two things I’m on a constant search for: great stroller and a great diaper bag, so I’d love to try the lillebaby Oslo bag!

Believe it or not, we have had some bare feet here in Ohio the past week or so. It’s been strangely warm. Do you want some leaves sent your way? We have thousands and thousands. Here’s to bare feet in October!

Your posts always help me to realize that the dishes will still be in the sink in an hour and that my 3 1/2 year old may not still be wanting to play so I go play with him and enjoy our small things. Love the red bag!!

This post is so sweet…I can see *LOVE* in all of your eyes. What a nice compliment to you as a mother that love shines through so simply and beautifully through your girls’ eyes. Thanks for the beautiful post, I need a ray of sunshine this morning.The bag is FAB…I want it!

I, too, and enjoying getting to be a child again through my little one (turning 2 in just over a week). Also considering going for #2.As always, you inspire me to slow down and enjoy PLAYING with my daughter.

Now…what color is on your toes in your barefeet picture – it is a great shade!

Thank you again for your blog. We just found out we are expecting our own bundle of joy and reading your blog makes me excited for the all the imagination and play to come:) (And don’t forget all the candy sneaking). Happy Halloween to you and your family!

And the day Noah was born, my sister, knowing how much I LOVE the baby stage, looked at me and said “you love babies, look what you’ve got”. And before I even knew that Noah had Down syndrome, my twin girls were going off to kindergarten and I cried. I thought they were all grown up and wouldn’t need me anymore, and I looked at my mom and pointed to my belly and said “this baby better need me FOREVER”. And he will!:)

Your pictures capture so much joy – once again highlighting how it’s the small things in life that provide the most…… the Olivia doll with Nella, the Fun Size candy wrappers piled up, the flowerclip and of course the feet, gotta love the baby feet – with our without socks!

With baby girl #3 on the way, I have been going through my ‘old’ stash of diaper bags. Can we say boring?! You know, they’re mostly the black ones you get for free from the hospital. I would be rockin’ with a killer red one!!!Your girls are adorable and I LOVE the new header on the blog. Thanks for your crafty words that always inspire.

Could your family be anymore gorgeous? You rock! The small things I’m enjoying? Funny YouTube videos that break up the monotony of my everyday routine. The leaves changing color and making everything beautiful hear in Ohio. And, the smiles of all the cute kiddos that I get to work with are the best!

You may have heard this already from another commenter, but it’s probably good to drop the term “wife beater.” It’s one of those words that people use frequently, but then, once you think about what you’re saying, is just so horrifying that you can’t believe you said it in the first place.

Thanks Kelle. You are the coolest mom I’ve ever seen, and you are so down to earth. Every morning while I’m pumping milk for my little guy, I read your blog to pass the time quickly. So you could say, you help start my day in a happy way!